Exploring Traverse City’s Fall Colors on a VIP Wine Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of soaking up those vibrant fall hues while sipping some of Michigan’s best wines, the NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour might catch your eye. Designed to avoid the hustle and bustle of big party buses, this tour offers a more refined, private way to enjoy the season’s beauty and the region’s wine excellence. It’s pitched as a “Movie Star Experience”, and honestly, the promise of luxury SUVs, stellar wineries, and stellar customer service sounds pretty appealing.

What really draws us in are a couple of standout features. First, the luxury SUV transport—no cramped buses here, just sleek, comfortable vehicles that make the journey more intimate and relaxing. Second, the customizable itinerary and attentive guides; they’re real wine enthusiasts who know their stuff and can give you tailored recommendations. But, before you rush to book, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the cheapest tour, and with only four to five hours and limited stops, it’s more about quality than quantity.

One thing to consider is that this experience is targeted toward those who appreciate a more upscale, less hurried wine outing. It’s not a tour for people who want a big-group party or a casual, hop-on-hop-off vibe. If you’re after a luxurious, personalized way to take in the fall colors and enjoy some top wineries, this might be just right. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more laid-back, larger-group experience, there are other options to explore.

This tour will likely suit couples, friends, or small groups looking for a stylish day out with excellent scenery and wine. It’s perfect if you want a memorable October or early fall experience that combines stunning views with some of the best wines Traverse City has to offer, all served up in a VIP setting.

Key Points

Luxury transportation: The tour uses high-end SUVs like Yukons, Cadillacs, and Tahoes, not buses, adding comfort and a sense of exclusivity.
Personalized experience: Small group size (up to 4 per vehicle) and guided by wine experts ensure tailored advice and a more intimate outing.
Stunning fall scenery: The tour takes you to Old Mission Peninsula, famous for its vibrant autumn colors and breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Diverse winery stops: Including Hawthorne Vineyards, Mari Vineyards, Bowers Harbor, Chateau Chantal, and Bonobo Winery, plus a distillery — offering a good variety of tasting experiences.
All-in-one package: Pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City mean less hassle and more time enjoying the scenery and wines.
Cost and value: At $69 per person, it’s a premium experience, but the luxury, guides, and scenery add to the worth.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Booking and Price

For $69 a person, this tour falls into a more premium category. It’s not the cheapest way to enjoy fall in Traverse City, but it’s clear that you’re paying for the comfort, exclusivity, and expert guidance. Booking about 44 days in advance shows it’s popular enough to fill up, especially during peak fall foliage.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 303 E State St, Traverse City, and lasts about 4 to 5 hours, including all stops, tasting, and transportation. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple. You’ll spend roughly 55 minutes at each stop, which is enough time to explore, taste, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Transportation: No Party Bus Here

One of the biggest differentiators is the transportation. Forget the party buses—these are luxury SUVs like Yukons and Cadillacs, which feel more like a private chauffeur experience. The vehicle is air-conditioned and designed for comfort, making the trip as enjoyable as the destinations.

This setup is especially appealing if you’ve experienced the chaos of larger tours and are craving a more laid-back, upscale vibe. It’s an ideal choice if you’re traveling with a small group or just want to feel like a celebrity for a day.

The Itinerary: Wineries and Beyond

Stop 1: Old Mission
The tour starts on Old Mission Peninsula, a renowned wine region with stunning views. You’ll visit several wineries—Hawthorne Vineyards, Mari Vineyards, Bowers Harbor, Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, Brys Estates, Bonobo Winery, 2 Lads, and an Old Mission Distillery. The focus here is on quality and scenery, with most stops offering free admission and tastings.

Stop 2: Hawthorne Vineyards
Known as one of Traverse City’s best, Hawthorne Vineyards offers a gorgeous location—perfect for Instagram shots and, as some say, even a proposal spot! The tasting here features some of the area’s finest reds and whites, and the setting is just as memorable as the wines.

Stop 3: Bonobo Winery
This stop is about more than just tasting. You can buy flights, wines by the glass, or bottles to take home. The vibe is friendly and fun, but it’s clear that Bonobo wines are crafted to impress. Plus, the staff’s enthusiasm makes the experience special.

Stop 4: Grand Traverse Bay
No visit to this region is complete without taking in the sweeping views of Grand Traverse Bay, part of Lake Michigan. Photos here are a must, and the scenery provides a calming backdrop for your tastings. The bay stretches 32 miles, with beautiful, rugged shoreline views that make you understand why this area is so beloved.

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The Guides and Customer Service

The guides are described as wine enthusiasts—real experts who can give personalized recommendations. The owners are former law enforcement, and the staff is praised for celebrity-like, stellar customer service. That personal touch elevates the tour beyond just tasting wine; it’s about creating a memorable, tailored experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are expert guides, a complimentary bottle of bubbly (Champagne Méthode!), and pickup/drop-off service. The SUV is air-conditioned, and the entire experience is tailored for a small group of up to four people, which enhances comfort and intimacy.

Extras like wine flights or bottles are at an additional cost, ranging from $12 to $50, and food isn’t included. This setup allows for flexibility—if you want to enjoy a full flight or purchase a special bottle, you’re free to do so.

The Overall Value

While $69 per person might seem a bit steep for a four-hour tour, the combination of luxury transport, guided expertise, scenic stops, and personalized service adds enough value. It’s a more upscale way to enjoy the fall colors, especially if you’re looking for a stress-free, VIP experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups seeking a luxury wine outing in a stunning setting. If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, personalized service, and beautiful scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s particularly ideal during fall when the vibrant leaves provide a perfect backdrop for sipping wines and snapping photos.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger groups and a more casual atmosphere, other options might serve you better. Also, those expecting a comprehensive winery tour with many stops might find the itinerary somewhat limited.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a refined, scenic take on Michigan’s wine country during the most colorful season. The luxury SUV transport, exclusive small-group setting, and knowledgeable guides make it a special way to celebrate fall. While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of comfort, scenery, and expert recommendations makes it worthwhile, especially if you want to feel like a star for a day.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who value quality over quantity, and who want an elegant, personalized experience that captures the true beauty of Traverse City in autumn. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and upscale wine outing, this could be just the ticket.

Ready to Book?

NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included. You’ll be picked up and dropped off in downtown Traverse City, and the ride is in a luxury SUV, not a bus.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, including stops, tastings, and transportation.

Are all stops included in the tour fee?
Most stops are included, but tastings like wine flights, bottles, or food are extra. You can buy additional wine or food at each winery or distillery.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since alcohol is involved and Michigan law requires alcohol purchase age to be 21, this tour is not suitable for children.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 4 people per SUV.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 44 days ahead, especially during peak fall foliage season.

If you’re looking for a refined, scenic way to enjoy Traverse City’s fall colors with excellent wines and VIP treatment, this tour offers a memorable experience without the crowds. Just be prepared for the price—sometimes, luxury really is worth it.